IEP's, FERPA and College

IEP's do not transfer to post-secondary institutions, but that doesn't mean a student's disabilities and need for accomodations cease to exist. Thus, a student's need to be empowered throughout their high school career is paramount to success in college. Students who learn how to advocate for their needs with a post-secondary institution have a greater success rate. If they don't who will? Parents, it is understandable that you will advocate for them during their K-12 career. However, once a student turns 18 your rights for your child's education change dramatically. 


FERPA consent transfers from a parent to a student once the student turns 18. Thus, tremendous responsibility is extended to a college student. However, if said student is still claimed as a dependent for tax purposes then the parent still has some legal rights to a student's educational records. However, those rights are not extended to the accommodations needed in the classroom. At a post-secondary institution that expectation lay with the student. For more information about FERPA rights in college check out the DOE website

Parents that currently have students with an IEP in primary and secondary education watch out for these red flags: